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Distribution Associate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Associate I, Distribution - TEMP

Buffalo Grove, IL ยท On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

The distribution associate is an entry level position and is responsible for assisting in many of the daily activities within the Distribution Center, including: inbound (receiving); inventory ...

The distribution associate is an entry level position and is responsible for assisting in many of the daily activities within the Distribution Center, including: inbound (receiving); inventory ...

The distribution associate is an entry level position and is responsible for assisting in many of the daily activities within the Distribution Center, including: inbound (receiving); inventory ...

Associate I, Distribution - TEMP

Buffalo Grove, IL ยท On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

The distribution associate is an entry level position and is responsible for assisting in many of the daily activities within the Distribution Center, including: inbound (receiving); inventory ...

Associate I, Distribution - TEMP

Buffalo Grove, IL ยท On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

The distribution associate is an entry level position and is responsible for assisting in many of the daily activities within the Distribution Center, including: inbound (receiving); inventory ...

Associate II, Distribution - TEMP

Buffalo Grove, IL ยท On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Responsibilities We currently have a great opportunity available for a Distribution Associate II. The distribution associate level 2 is an advance position with responsibility in a variety of roles ...

Distribution Associate-2nd Shift

IL ยท On-site

$24.66 - $28.55/hr

What Drives Success The individual in this role performs manual and clerical duties related to the shipment and receipt of materials, supplies, equipment and finished products. Duties include, but ...

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Distribution Associate information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do distribution associate jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for distribution associate in Chicago, IL is $18.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $21.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Distribution Associate?

A distribution associate works in a warehouse or product distribution facility. As a distribution associate, your job duties are to receive customer orders, locate purchased items, and pack them for shipment. A career as a distribution associate does not require you to have formal education or qualifications, nor is previous experience necessary, though it may be helpful. You should have strong multitasking and organizational skills, as you deal with multiple customer orders simultaneously and may be required to find and restock items without looking through item location databases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Distribution Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Distribution Associate, you typically need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with inventory management systems, handheld scanners, and warehouse management software is often required. Dependability, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for excelling in this role. These abilities ensure efficient, accurate handling and movement of goods, supporting smooth operations and customer satisfaction in the supply chain.

What are some common challenges faced by Distribution Associates, and how can new hires effectively overcome them?

Distribution Associates often face challenges such as maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines, adapting to rapidly changing inventory systems, and working efficiently within a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. New hires can overcome these obstacles by staying organized, being proactive in communicating with supervisors and colleagues, and taking advantage of training resources provided by the employer. Developing a strong attention to detail and a willingness to learn new technology or processes can also enhance performance and job satisfaction in this role.

What are Distribution Associates?

Distribution Associates are professionals responsible for handling, organizing, and moving products within warehouses or distribution centers. Their duties often include receiving shipments, verifying inventory, picking and packing orders, and preparing goods for shipping. They may also operate equipment like forklifts and use inventory management systems to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Distribution Associates play a crucial role in ensuring that products are delivered to customers or retailers on time and in good condition.

What is the difference between Distribution Associate vs Warehouse Worker?

AspectDistribution Associate

Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications like OSHA safety training are common
Work EnvironmentIndoor warehouse or distribution center, involving physical tasks and equipment operation
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by retail, logistics, and distribution companies for order fulfillment roles
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared with Warehouse Worker due to similar duties and work settings

The main difference between a Distribution Associate and a Warehouse Worker lies in their specific roles. Distribution Associates typically focus on order picking, packing, and preparing shipments for delivery, often working closely with logistics systems. Warehouse Workers may perform broader tasks such as inventory management, stocking, and general warehouse maintenance. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but Distribution Associates usually have more specialized responsibilities related to distribution processes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Distribution jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Distribution jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Distribution Associate jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Distribution Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Distribution Associate job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,964 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Associate I, Distribution - TEMP

Sysmex

Buffalo Grove, IL โ€ข On-site

$16.75 - $22/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview
Find a Better Way...
...to use your skills and experience.
This is the time to let your talent come to life. To maximize your knowledge and use it for the greater good. To work with the best professionals using state-of-the-art technology, and improve lives with your innovative ideas and ambitious dreams. Find a better way: the Sysmex Way.
...to improve the lives of others.
Headquartered in Kobe, Japan, Sysmex is located in Lincolnshire, Illinois. Renowned worldwide for the very finest in quality, innovative diagnostic equipment and information-management systems, we apply science to enhance the quality of life on a global scale. Our agile, resourceful team is committed to realizing critical breakthroughs in laboratory diagnostics, information technology, workflow analysis and life sciences for the clinical laboratory.
...to build a promising future.
Responsibilities
We currently have a great opportunity available for a Distribution Associate. The distribution associate is an entry level position and is responsible for assisting in many of the daily activities within the Distribution Center, including: inbound (receiving); inventory control; production support; put away, storing, cycle counting, packing and shipping of materials and/or finished goods. Ensure the cleanliness of the warehouse is maintained in addition to maintaining a safety orient culture in a policy and procedure based organization. Contribute to the continuous improvement process through recommendations, suggestion, and implementation of approved projects.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
General:
  1. Load and unload all inbound and outbound trailers, trucks, vans, making sure all safety devices are utilized and distribution center procedures are being followed. Conduct daily cycle counts and physical inventories. Consolidate product to optimize space in the warehouse.
  2. Awareness of all products and product handling requirements. Monitoring warehouse inventory levels and replenish inventory into warehouse racking. Assist warehouse team in meeting productivity requirements with assigned tasks.
  3. Preparing items as per customer packaging, labeling, and shipping requirements which includes picking and packing items for orders to ship daily to our customers according to departmental procedures.
  4. Operates all material handling equipment, vertical baler, pallet jack, two wheel cart, bar code scanners, conveyor, air machine, sealed air, shipping manifest systems with exception of industrial lift trucks, until certified.
  5. Follow the guidelines and directions set by the Distribution Management Team and perform other duties as assigned.

Continuous Improvements:
  1. Interface with Sysmex internal customers and external customers as needed or directed on continuous improvement opportunities. Learn the roles and responsibilities of Distribution Associate Level 2.
  2. Ability to multi-task proactively and re-prioritize on a daily basis to accommodate the changing business requirements. Participate in all continuous improvement projects and cost saving measures.

Quality:
  1. Follow distribution procedures in accordance with cGXP, FDA, OSHA, IATA, DOT, TSA and other applicable regulations or other foreign authority of regulatory requirements. This includes product documentation, quality standards, specifications, SOP's & GMP. Assist the distribution team keeping department in audit ready condition at all times. Responsible for the quality and integrity of personal time records and doing your part in reducing expenses for items such as material handling equipment, building, and product.

Safety:
  1. Follows all safety standards and training in the department; ensures that the building is maintained in a clean and safe manner and that inventories and equipment are properly protected against theft, fire and other hazards that may cause loss or damage. Maintain housekeeping duties and designated aisles.

Customer Service:
  1. Demonstrate good customer service to all departments through timely movement of goods into and out of the warehouse. Contributes to good customer service through follow up of issues and concerns of internal and external customers. Promote customer-centric environment.

Physical Risk. Regular exposures to risk that may require special training and precautions.
Physical Demands. Heavy physical activity. Routine handling of objects more than 50 pounds. May require periods of substantial discomforts due to excessive noise, dust, and/or other conditions.
Qualifications
  • High School diploma/GED degree preferred.
  • Must possess at least 1-2 years prior distribution or warehouse experience including barcode scanners, printers, etc.
  • Ability to read, speak, and comprehend in English simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.
  • Ability to write simple correspondence.
  • Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization.
  • Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
  • Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
  • Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed but uninvolved written or oral instructions.
  • Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.

This job requires satisfaction of the credentialing requirements of Sysmex's customers, including hospitals and other healthcare facilities, which generally includes proof of current vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, varicella (chicken pox), and COVID-19.
The hourly pay range for this position is $15.14 - $23.80. Within this range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The total compensation package for this position also includes a choice of health care plan (medical, vision, and dental insurance), an annual incentive bonus, paid time off, parental leave, bereavement leave and a 401(K) for all eligible employees.
Sysmex is proud to be an EEO/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, color, religion, national origin, genetics, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.